Marcos respects freedom of expression – Palace

Armed Forces of the Philippines on red alert

- ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS, CHITO CHAVEZ, and AARON RECUENCO

Malacañang said President Marcos recognizes the public's right to express dissent as protests against corruption in government are set to take place on Sept. 21, the anniversary of the declaration of martial law.

In a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President considers the demonstrations a valid expression of sentiment, especially amid public concern over corruption and governance.

"The President will always respect this freedom of expression," she said on Saturday, Sept. 13.

“So, kung anuman po ang nararamdaman na senti-myento ng ating mga kababayan sa ngayon, iyan po ay ginagalang ng Pangulo (Whatever sentiments our countrymen feel right now, the President respects that)," she added.

The Palace official, however, hoped protests remain free from groups that may exploit them for destabilization.

"Ang dasal lamang po natin, ito kanilang pagsisintemyento ay huwag sanang sakyan ng ibang mga tao na hindi maganda ang naisin para sa gobyerno kung hindi mag-destabilize (Our only prayer is that these sentiments are not ridden on by others whose intent is not good for the government but only to destabilize)," she said.

The Palace official added that Marcos supports citizens who raise their grievances in good faith, particularly in the fight against corruption.

"So, iyan po ay sinusuportahan naman din po ng Pangulo ang mga hinaing ng ating taumbayan dahil ito naman po ay laban sa kurapsyon (The President supports the grievances of our people because this is, after all, against corruption)," Castro said.

Red alert

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been placed on red alert in preparation for the protests being planned this week against anomalous flood control projects.